What is the recommended percentage of total daily calories that should come from added sugars?

The recommended percentage of total daily calories from added sugars is up to 10%. This guideline is based on health recommendations that aim to promote better dietary habits and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Consuming too much added sugar can lead to excessive calorie intake without essential nutrients, contributing to an imbalanced diet and potential health issues.

Health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Heart Association (AHA), support this 10% guideline based on evidence that shows that higher intakes of added sugars correlate with negative health outcomes. Limiting added sugars to this recommended range encourages individuals to consume more nutrient-dense foods, thereby improving overall health.